Current Weather in Thimphu

The climate culture and weather awareness in Bhutan are deeply intertwined with the mountainous environment and Buddhist values, forming multiple aspects related to life, events, agricultural calendars, disaster preparedness, and recent responses to climate change.

Mountain Climate and Sense of Seasons

High-altitude Seasons and Microclimates

• The temperature difference between spring and autumn is significant due to elevation changes, and within the same region, the arrival of seasons is experienced sequentially from "lowland to highland."
• During the summer monsoon, lush greenery spreads throughout the mountainous areas, and in autumn, rice harvesting and autumn foliage occur simultaneously.

Relationship Between Buddhist Events and Weather

Religious Rituals and Weather Selection

• The Paro Tshechu festival in spring (March to April) is held in accordance with the period when the climate stabilizes.
• In May, mountain monks conduct highland pilgrimages such as "Kunnyin Ram," planned for the clear weather anticipated during the dry season.

Agricultural Calendar and Weather Recognition

Traditional Rice and Maize Cultivation

• The timing for planting rice is determined based on the arrival of the monsoon, with the harvest season concentrated in September and October.
• Abnormal weather phenomena such as frost and heavy rain are calmed through prayers to the "Earth and Sky Gods," with changes in weather being accepted through Buddhist rituals.

Sensitivity to Weather in Daily Life

Adaptation to Daily Rhythm

• The morning and evening chill is harsh, and it is common to adjust body temperature with multiple layers of clothing during travel.
• Outdoor activities like grazing and tea-picking are concentrated during brief periods of sunshine.

Disaster Preparedness and Community Assistance

Preparation for Floods and Landslides

• Frequent landslides and floods due to heavy rains in the rainy season result in the establishment of evacuation routes and the placement of lookouts at the village level.
• Traditional information sharing and emergency responses at the "Zhong" (settlement) unit become a lifeline.

Recent Awareness of Climate Change

Glacier Melting and Sustainability

• Concerns about changes in water resources due to glacier melting and the beginning of experiencing changes in precipitation patterns are emerging.
• "Global and local" environmental conservation activities are promoted through school education and temple networks.

Summary

Bhutan's climate culture is characterized by the organic connection of the mountainous environment and Buddhist values, linking agriculture, daily life, religious events, disaster preparedness, and responses to climate change.